ZF’s heated seatbelt improves EV driving range

German automotive parts supplier ZF Friedrichshafen has developed a new heated seatbelt to extend electric vehicle driving range.

It incorporates a unique textile processing method by weaving electrical heating conductors into the seatbelt structure, with no compromising necessary on occupant protection or need to increase its thickness.

ZF claims it can increase EV driving range by up to 15 per cent in combination with heated seats and reducing climate control use.

The seatbelt quickly heats up between 36 to 40-degrees celsius with a uniform feeling and is most useful in extreme colder climates such as Europe, where temperatures of up to -50 degrees celsius have been recorded in some regions.

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This means, occupants are more likely to take off their thick winter jackets while inside the car, allowing the seatbelt restraint to be closer against the body to ensure optimum crash protection.

There are no added procedures or qualifications needed from car brands to fit the heated seatbelts at mass scale, but there are likely to be slight installation differences.

The company hasn’t detailed when it’ll be available.

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ZF has been best known to supply its eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission to models such as the latest BMW M3 and M4 high performance sedans, Rolls-Royce Ghost limousine and GWM Tank 300 off-road SUV.

The German manufacturer is responsible for the electric drive unit – including the motors, transmission, electronics and control software – for the Mercedes-Benz EQC mid-sized SUV and introduced an improved version late last year.

It also develops airbags, safety assistance systems and autonomous driving tech.